Web design is always evolving. For a long time, this evolution has been focused on making websites more functional; however, recent trends have been focused on the usability of the websites that are created. Designers and developers have been faced with an influx of mobile computing devices which are creating the rules for new design trends. Here are some of the most influential trends that are focused on usability.

Use of fixed header bars

The header bar in most websites has changed from just being an aesthetic component to a highly functional toolbar. These header bars are now designed in a fixed manner in relation to the rest of the page which can move. The header bar is, therefore, always accessible regardless of how far down the page the user has scrolled. This is a product of the advent of social media platforms which needed to make sure that functionality was accessible regardless of content size or length.

Infinite scrolling

The wealth of information and content on the internet poses a challenge because if you make a single webpage containing a large amount of information, the webpage would be too large to be usable. Website design has addressed this challenge by creating infinite scrolling. This technology uses a continuous internet connection to ensure that the page keeps loading as it is scrolled. Technically, the page can be loaded for as long as an internet connection is available. This design makes it possible to have one page that provides all of the content that one intends to publish.

One page websites

The idea that a website could be designed to fit on one page seemed a ridiculous notion at first. However, as infinite scrolling and sliding tabs became a reality, it is now possible to create such websites. The beauty of this website design is that the viewer is able to see all of the content that you intend them to see. Business websites can benefit from this website design as they can ensure that visitors interact with a large portion of their website without having to navigate many pages.

Vertical scrolling

The increase in mobile device users has made it necessary for web designers to re-evaluate screen real estate in devices. This is because mobile devices are usually longer than they are wider as opposed to desktop devices. Vertical scrolling places links on the side and uses a sidebar for website navigation as there is more space there.